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Advice purchase electric bicycle

What do you need to know before you buy an e-bike?

With the weather – and especially the wind – in the Netherlands it can be nice sometimes to get some extra assistance while cycling. This also holds true if you want to travel a long distance on your bike or even if pedalling gets more difficult. In such cases an e-bike is an excellent answer: optimum cycling pleasure with minimal effort and maximum assistance. But even if you don’t need added assistance per se, an e-bike can be the right choice. E-cycling makes it a little easier to get going and much more fun too!

On this page, you will find everything you need to know when acquiring an e-bike.

How does an e-bike work?

An e-bike combines your own effort with the power of an electric motor. This motor assists you up to around 25 kilometres per hour. The current for that 'extra boost' is supplied by the battery, which is often located in the rear carrier. The motor in an e-bike is located in the middle of the bike, in the rear wheel or in the front wheel. Smart sensors measure your speed, your pedal force or your pedal rotation and use this information to provide the appropriate electric assistance.

An e-bike is very easy to operate, with controls on the handlebar. This is where you select your level of assistance for example. There is also a display on your handlebar, with readouts for everything, such as how fast you are going or how far you have already travelled.

What will you be using the bike for?

Your choice of an e-bike depends not only on your personal preferences and budget, how you will be using the bike is also an important factor. Is the bike for short daily local trips or commuting to work? If so, you will want an e-bike that gives you the appropriate assistance quickly, without requiring an effort on your part. Do you often cycle for long distances at a time or go on cycling holidays? If so, you will want a bike with a battery that provides assistance for longer. How you use it therefore will determine your choice of the various (technical) components.

What is your budget for an e-bike?

The price of an e-bike starts at around € 1,000 rising to over € 6,000. It is also true in this regard that a good e-bike need not be the most expensive. Your choice of components and features will determine the price of the bike. Do you have a (limited) budget? If you do, then decide which e-bike features are most important for you and use them as the starting point in the search for your ideal bike. Does the price of your ideal e-bike exceed your budget? If so, you can consider making use of a credit package. You will be paying out monthly, but the bike will be at your disposal immediately. This package can also be combined with insurance cover or breakdown assistance for instance. Do you want to spare the need to look after service and maintenance for example? In this case a leasing package may well be the answer for you.

Pedal assistance and sensors

An e-bike uses a battery and motor to provide assistance while cycling. When you get assistance, and how much, is determined by sensors. All e-bikes are equipped with a speed sensor. This sensor measures how fast you are travelling and ensures that assistance cuts out as soon as you reach a speed of 25 kilometres per hour. The way in which assistance is provided while cycling is determined by the type of sensor. You have a choice of two types of sensor.

Rotation sensor (or motion sensor)

The rotation sensor senses whether the pedals are rotating. Assistance will kick in with a small delay as soon as you start pedalling. This means that an e-bike does not provide assistance immediately when you set off. The assistance will not be perceptible until after around one revolution of the wheels. If you stop pedalling or apply the brakes, then the assistance will cut out after a small delay. It makes no difference to the rotation sensor how much force you apply to the pedals, you will always get maximum assistance. The degree of assistance is determined on the basis of the speed in the selected setting.

Advantages

This simple system means that the rotation sensor is highly reliable

The system is cost-effective

You get assistance all the time, regardless of how much force you apply to the pedals

Disadvantages

The assistance is not immediately perceptible on setting off

The assistance can feel unnatural because it is based on rotation rather than pedal force

The rotation sensor draws more power from the battery

Pedal force sensor

The pedal force sensor senses not only whether the pedals are rotating, but also how much force you are applying to them. The motor is controlled on the basis of this information and provides more or less assistance directly. You don't notice any delay with it. It means you get exactly the right assistance while cycling. The force sensor ensures that the assistance cuts out immediately you stop pedalling or when you apply the brakes.

Advantages

The harder you pedal, the more assistance you get

The assistance feels natural

You get assistance as soon as you set off

Disadvantage

Your assistance is only delivered when you apply effort yourself

Difference between sensors

Would you like to know how the various sensors work and what the difference is between the 2 types of sensor? See the explanation in a video.

Motor in the front wheel (front-wheel motor)

If the e-bike motor is positioned in the front wheel, it will be as if the bike is being pulled. Due to the extra weight in the front wheel, the bike is heavier to steer than those with the motor in the other positions. An e-bike with a front-wheel motor is equipped with a rotation sensor. A number of models are equipped with both a rotation sensor and a pedal force sensor. If you opt for a battery under the luggage carrier with a front-wheel motor, then it will counterbalance the weight in the front wheel. The bike will be better balanced with the weight distributed.

Advantages

A front-wheel motor e-bike is less expensive than a bike with a rear-wheel or mid-mounted motor

You perceive the assistance as if you were being pulled along

A front-wheel motor can be combined with either hub or derailleur gears and all types of chain case

Disadvantages

The bike is heavier to steer due to the extra weight in the front wheel

It is not a simple matter to replace the front tyre on the bike or repair a puncture in it

The weight of the bike is predominantly on the front wheel, this increases the risk of skidding

Can be combined with

Motor in bottom bracket (mid-mounted motor)

If the e-bike motor is positioned at the bottom bracket, then the pedals are driven. This is a major difference compared with the drive in the front wheel (front-wheel motor) or in the rear wheel (rear-wheel motor). The electric assistance provides a natural and comfortable feel, but this is offset by the fact that mid-mounted motor bikes are more expensive. The mid-mounted motor is equipped with a rotation and a pedal force sensor. These sensors ensure that you get optimum assistance on the go, based on both speed and the pressure you apply to the pedals. The centre of gravity is in the middle of the bike because the motor is positioned low down and centrally. This gives a feeling of stability while cycling. Cycling on a mid-mounted motor bike is perceived as riding a non-electric bike.

Advantages

Mid-mounted motors are usually powerful, thus providing a great deal of assistance

The bike handles like a non-electric bike

The motor position does not affect wheel removal and replacement

You experience natural assistance due to the fact that the pedals are being driven

The motor features a rotation and a pedal force sensor

Disadvantages

A mid-mounted motor bike is more expensive than an e-bike with a front wheel or rear-wheel motor

The force on the chain means that the gear system is more prone to faults

The motor is fitted with gears and is not silent

Can be combined with

Motor in rear wheel (rear-wheel motor)

If the e-bike motor is positioned in the rear wheel, then you will perceive the motor assistance as being pushed along. This feels like natural assistance, due the fact that a conventional bike is also driven by the rear wheel. A rear-wheel motor does not generally travel as far on a battery charge as a front-wheel or mid-mounted motor. The centre of gravity coincides with the rear wheel and the bike can be given a more natural balance by opting for a battery fitted in the frame.

Advantages

You perceive the assistance as if you were being pushed along

The motor is quiet

Disadvantages

It is not a simple matter to replace the rear tyre on the bike or repair a puncture in it

The weight of the bike is predominantly on the rear end

A rear-wheel can only be combined with derailleur gears and a (semi) open chain case

The motor is less efficient

Can be combined with

Gear type: derailleur

Chain cases: open and semi-open

Motor position characteristics

Would you like to know which motor position suits you best? This will depend on, among other things, how you intend to use your e-bike. Check out the explanation in video form.

Which battery position?

The battery of an e-bike supplies power to the motor. However, the battery also adds weight to the e-bike. Together with the motor and other items, the battery means that an e-bike is six kilos heavier on average than an ordinary bike. This extra weight affects the balance and the centre of gravity of the bike. Depending on the type of e-bike, the battery is fitted under the luggage or front carrier, around the bottom bracket or in/on the frame. Accordingly, it holds that: the lower the battery is positioned on the bike, the more stable the handling. You have a choice of four different positions.

Battery under the luggage carrier

Many e-bikes are equipped with a battery under the luggage carrier. It endows front-wheel motor e-bikes with optimum balance. In the other e-bikes it means that the centre of gravity is towards the rear of the bike.

Advantages

Easily concealed by fitting bike bags

The centre of gravity is towards the rear end and on front-wheel motor bikes it is in the middle

The battery is simple to fit and remove

Disadvantages

Not all types of bike bag can be fitted on the luggage carrier

The centre of gravity is high, which can affect the stability of the luggage carrier

Battery around the bottom bracket

An e-bike battery can be incorporated in the chain case. This makes the bike barely distinguishable from a 'normal' bike. If the battery is incorporated behind the bottom bracket, it will be quite visible. The centre of gravity is positioned centrally, which gives the bike stable handling.

Advantages

The bike is barely recognisable as an e-bike

The centre of gravity is lower

The e-bike boasts more stable handling

Disadvantages

Not all battery variants are removable

The chain case does not have much space available, which means that battery capacity is very limited

If the battery is fitted above or behind the bottom bracket, it will have a significant impact on the appearance of the bike

Battery in or on the frame

E-bikes with the battery in or on the frame have the centre of gravity in the middle of the bike. This gives the bike stable handling and due to the positioning of the motor is barely recognisable as an e-bike.

Advantages

The centre of gravity is lower

The e-bike handles with greater stability

In the frame: the bike is barely recognisable as an e-bike

Disadvantages

On the frame: the battery can be in the way

Not all integrated batteries are removable, in which case charging can be an awkward operation

Battery under the front carrier

If the bike is fitted with a front carrier, the battery can be fitted under this carrier. This added weight is quite noticeable when steering.

Advantage

Easily concealed by fitting a bike crate or basket

Disadvantage

Steering feels heavier due to the extra weight over the front wheel

Fixed or removable battery?

An e-bike battery is rechargeable and needs to be recharged regularly in use. You have a choice of two options.

Removable battery

If you want flexibility when charging the battery, then your preference will be for a removable battery. The battery is actually supplied with a charger that can be plugged into any mains socket. You simply remove the battery from the e-bike and recharge it at the nearest mains socket. Do you take your bike on a bike carrier regularly? If so, a removable battery is desirable. An e-bike is quite a bit lighter without its battery and easier to lift onto the carrier.

Advantages

The battery is easy to remove, for charging or in extremely cold weather, for example

The battery is easy to replace (on the go as well, with a spare battery)

The battery can be recharged easily from any mains socket

Fixed battery

If you want your battery to be well protected, then your preference will be for a fixed battery. The bike will need to be close to a mains socket in order to be able to recharge the battery.

Advantage

The battery will be protected by the frame

Disadvantages

The battery can only be replaced by a specialist (bike repair technician)

The bike must be capable of being positioned close to a mains socket in order to recharge the battery

The bike needs to be protected against extremes of hot or cold weather

Which type of battery?

The battery powers the motor on an e-bike. The type of battery, like the range, will have an impact on the distance you can travel on your e-bike. There are five different types of battery, four of which are still available on new e-bikes. You will only come across the NiCad, short for nickel-cadmium, type on second-hand e-bikes.

NiMH (nickel metal hydride)

The NiMH battery is the successor to the NiCad battery and is the current standard in Europe. This type of battery requires regular charging, even if the e-bike is not being used (for an extended period). The battery must be left connected to the charger at all times. The charger thus ensures that the battery is kept in optimum condition. Allow 4 to 6 hours' charging time for this type of battery.

Advantage

These batteries are less expensive than other types of battery

Disadvantages

The useful life of these batteries is shorter than those using Lithium technology

They have a relatively high rate of self-discharge

They are larger and heavier than other types of battery

They are less able to withstand temperature fluctuations

They need to be left connected to the charger

Li-ion (lithium-ion)

Lithium-ion is known as the generic term for the many batteries containing lithium. This type of battery has a low self-discharge rate and a long(er) useful life. This is offset by the fact that the price of this type of battery is higher.

Advantages

These batteries are small in size

They need just 2 to 3.5 hours to be fully recharged

They are well able to withstand temperature fluctuations

They have a relatively low rate of self-discharge

They do not need to be connected to the charger continuously

They offer the best value in terms of performance versus cost

Disadvantage

These batteries carry a higher price tag than a NiMH battery

LiPo (Lithium Polymer)

The LiPo battery is one of the better batteries in the Li-ion range. This battery is even smaller than the average Li-ion battery. If the e-bike is not being used for an extended period, it is recommended that this battery should be stored with a 40% charge (preferably in a cool environment).

Advantages

Rapid charging, a completely discharged battery can be recharged in 1 to 1.5 hours

This battery is lightweight and boasts a long(er) useful life

It has a relatively low rate of self-discharge

Disadvantage

This battery is priced higher than other types with limited advantages

LiFePO4 (lithium-iron-phosphate)

The latest generation of batteries bears the name LiFePO4 (or a derivative of it; LP4, LFP, LFP4). This battery is improved on all fronts which makes it the pick of the crop. However, it is priced accordingly. If you work it out, acquiring an e-bike fitted with a LiFePO4 battery is worth considering, given that the battery will last longer and is less likely to need replacing before the bike itself is due for replacement. There is only a limited range of e-bikes equipped with this type of battery at present. This range will be expanded in the future.

Advantages

This battery has a longer useful life that NiMH or Li-ion batteries

Rapid charging

This battery is light in weight

It has a low rate of self-discharge

Disadvantage

This battery is priced considerably higher than other types of battery

Which type of gears?

If you set great store by the type of gears on your e-bike, it is advisable to decide on your choice early in the selection process for it. The type of gears can in fact have an impact on the position of the motor, the chain case configuration and the maintenance requirement of the bike. You have a choice of three types of gears.

Derailleur gears

The bike chain is shifted between sprockets by means of a shift mechanism. The mechanism and the sprockets are fitted on the rear wheel. With derailleur gears you simply choose an appropriate gear, the large number of sprockets means there is an equally large number of gears available.

You will often see this type of gears on sporty e-bikes, due to their weight (lighter than hub gears) and the range of gears.

Advantages

The system has a large number of available gears

The gears can be matched more accurately to the conditions (smaller steps in gear ratios) which means a wider range

Simple to maintain thanks to the open chain case

Light in weight

Disadvantages

The system needs to be readjusted precisely and regularly

Gear can only be shifted on the move, not while the bike is at a standstill

Can be combined with

Hub gears

With hub gears, all the gears are concealed in the rear-wheel hub. This means there are no gears or sprockets visible on the bike. There are larger steps between gears and they will adapt less precisely to cycling conditions.

Hub gears are sensitive to the pressure applied while pedalling, hence it is better not to pedal while shifting. Damage to the hub gears may result if the pedal assistance is engaged and you don't stop pedalling while shifting. That is why e-bikes with hub gears are sometimes equipped with a shift assist. This assist cuts out the assistance briefly while shifting, thus protecting the hub gears.

Hub gears can be equipped with a toothed-belt drive. Because no lubrication is required, the toothed belt requires little maintenance. There are two variants, a manually-operated version and an automatic version. With the automatic variant, the pedal frequency can be set and it is maintained regardless of speed. The system shifts down to the lowest gear when the bike is at a standstill.

Advantages

Little maintenance required (almost maintenance-free)

No exposed gears/sprockets

Shifting can also take place with the bike at a standstill

The automatic variant shifts back down to the lowest gear at a standstill

Disadvantages

The gears are matched less accurately to the conditions (larger steps in gear ratios)

The rear wheel is not easy to remove (the tyre needs to be changed with the wheel on the bike)

The system is heavier in weight than a derailleur

Can be combined with

Motor position: front-wheel motor and mid-mounted motor

Chain case: enclosed and open

Continuously variable gears

With automatic or continuously-variable gears you don't have a fixed number of gears available. The number of gears is actually infinite. Using the control on the handlebar (in the form of a rotary switch) you determine yourself how gently or how hard you want to pedal. This type of gears draws more power from the motor, which reduces the range of your e-bike.

Advantages

Little maintenance required (almost maintenance-free)

No exposed gears/sprockets

The automatic variant shifts down to the lowest gear at a as soon as the bike comes to a standstill

The automatic variant shifts up through the gears as soon as you increase your speed

You can shift while pedalling

Disadvantages

The hub is relatively heavy

A lot of shifting to get from the lowest to the highest gear

Can be combined with

Motor position: front-wheel motor and mid-mounted motor

Chain case: enclosed

Which type of brake system?

As you can imagine, a powerful brake system is not a superfluous luxury on an e-bike. Thanks to the pedal assistance (that will take you up to 25 kilometres per hour) you will sail along with ease, so it is important to be able to come to a standstill smartly at low as well as high speed.

An e-bike features a powerful brake system in the form of a coaster brake and/or hand-operated brakes. Nowadays there is just one e-bike that still features a coaster brake. The majority of the e-bike range boasts one (or a combination) of the three types of hand-operated brakes.

Coaster brake

The coaster brake is featured on a small range of e-bikes. And not without good reason. The coaster brake is a simple powerful brake system that works by back-pedalling. You brake on the rear wheel only, which means that when you brake abruptly, you run the risk of locking the rear wheel and skidding.

Advantages

Inexpensive and simple system

Powerful brake system

Disadvantages

High risk of skidding when braking abruptly

Stopping distances are very long without a front brake

Disc brake

With this type of brake system pressure is applied (using oil) on the disc located next to the hub. This action is powerful, regardless of weather conditions, but the disc is very sensitive (to corrosion or squealing for example). Disc brakes are fitted to somewhat more expensive e-bikes, usually on the sporty versions.

Advantages

Shortest stopping distance

Lightweight and sporty look

Braking power can be applied progressively

Disadvantages

Disc brakes are sensitive and hence highly vulnerable

This brake system requires a great deal of maintenance

Susceptible to corrosion and squealing

Rim brake

With this type of hand-operated brake, also known as a V-brake, synthetic blocks are pressed against the rim while braking. This provides a powerful braking effect, but it also means that the blocks wear during braking. The high-end e-bike segment is equipped with hydraulic rim brakes. With this variant the brake blocks are applied to the rim by oil pressure.

Advantages

A strong and simple brake system which is very light

Reliable brake system, the brake blocks grip very effectively

Short braking distance

No locking up or reduced braking function when applying brakes abruptly

Disadvantages

Brake blocks need to be replaced regularly due to rapid wear

Reduced braking power in wet weather

Brake blocks are susceptible to dirt

Roller brake (or drum brake)

The majority of e-bikes feature roller brakes, a modern version of the traditional drum brake. This is a maintenance-free brake system that works by means of rollers. The rollers are pushed out while braking, which generates the braking force. You can recognise this brake system on an e-bike from the round disc with ridges (in the front or rear wheel).

Advantages

Maintenance-free

A durable brake system with a useful life equal to that of the bike

Disadvantages

Longer braking distances due to less powerful braking effect

The braking system is heavy in weight

The brake system can overheat during sustained or frequent braking over a short period and there is a risk of the brake seizing up

Which type of chain case?

If you have a preference for the type of chain case on your e-bike, it is a good idea to include it in the selection at an early stage. This is because the choice of a type of chain case will affect the position of the motor and/or the type of gears. You have a choice of three options.

Enclosed chain case

An enclosed chain case is the best option for the useful life of the chain. The chain case protects the chain against moisture and dirt. What is more, the chain case also protects your clothes: the enclosed configuration means that you won't get any lube on your clothing.

Advantages

The chain case protects the chain and your clothing

The chain needs no maintenance

Disadvantage

The chain case cannot be combined with a derailleur

Can be combined with

Motor position: front-wheel motor and mid-mounted motor

Gears: hub gears or automatic gears

Semi-open chain case

Like an open chain case, a semi-open chain case is very light, but provides the chain with little or no protection. The chain is exposed to dirt and moisture which means it will require maintenance. Using a chain guard protects your clothing against chain lube and splashes of dirt.

Advantage

The chain guard goes with a derailleur

It is light in weight

Disadvantages

The chain is susceptible to maintenance

Can be combined with

Open chain case

An open chain case is very light, but this is offset by the fact that it does not offer the chain any protection at all. This means that the chain will need a great deal of maintenance in view of the fact that it is exposed to dirt and moisture. The lack of a cover means that you risk getting lube stains on your clothing.

Advantage

The chain guard goes with a derailleur

Disadvantages

The chain case does not offer any protection to chain or your clothing

The chain is susceptible to maintenance

Can be combined with

You can also opt for...

Walk Assist

The majority of e-bikes feature Walk Assist. You use it to activate manual assistance without the pedals having to turn. This can be useful if you are walking up a hill wheeling the bike or don’t have the strength to push your bike along. Walk Assist will provide assistance at walking pace up to a speed of around 4 kilometres per hour.

See also...

Motor torque and power

The motor power determines the level of assistance while cycling. Motor torque (rotational force) is expressed in newton metres (Nm) and hence the higher the Nm figure, the greater the assistance the motor is capable of. If your cycle uphill a great deal, then a powerful motor (a minimum of 40 Nm comes to mind) can give you a good boost in doing so. If you cycle a great deal on flat roads, then a less powerful motor (10 to 30 Nm comes to mind) will provide you with all the assistance you need. Bear in mind that a powerful motor draws more power from the battery. The higher the torque output from a motor, the shorter the period over which the battery can supply power for (pedal) assistance.

Should you opt for a (more) powerful motor, then it should be positioned ideally around the bottom bracket (mid-mounted motor) or in the rear wheel (rear motor). The power from the motor is then harnessed to give you extra push and assist you from the bottom bracket or the rear wheel. This provides stability and the assistance feels natural while cycling.

Motor noise

An e-bike motor can generate noise. The noise level depends on the construction of the motor. If the e-bike has a geared motor, then the motor will include gears and brushes. This type of motor generates noise which is clearly noticeable on the move. A motor without gearing is silent, because there are no gears or brushes in this type of motor. This type of motor is also known as a direct drive motor.

Battery power

The battery determines to a large extent how far you can travel with assistance on your e-bike (range). Accordingly, the length of your trips on your e-bike plays an important part in your choice of battery. The greater the distance you travel, the greater the battery capacity needs to be. On the other hand, a battery with more capacity is generally more expensive to boot.

Battery capacity is expressed in ampere hours (Ah) and watt hours (Wh). Unlike watt hours, ampere hours do not take account of the voltage while the battery is discharging. It is best therefore to assess batteries based on the watt hour rating. The higher this figure, the longer you can cycle with assistance.

Most e-bikes are supplied with a battery as standard. If the bike is not fitted with a battery as standard, then you will need to choose the battery capacity yourself, which will give you (more) control over the price of your e-bike.

Range

The range of an e-bike is the distance you can cycle without having to recharge the battery. The greater the battery capacity, the further you can cycle with pedal assistance. Is the range of a battery known? If so, it is the distance based on ideal conditions. It is not a guarantee that you will achieve the same range on your e-bike. Do you want the maximum possible range? If so, bear the following factors in mind:

Weight: it holds in this respect that the weight of the bike as well as that of the rider will affect the range. The more weight the motor is required to assist, the shorter the range.

Resistance: this applies not only to the weather conditions (headwind, rain), but also to tyre pressure and the condition of the road. Higher resistance will have an adverse impact on your range.

Speed: the faster you cycle, the shorter the range will be. The e-bike will provide more assistance at higher speeds.

Assistance: with regard to the assistance setting, it holds that the lower the setting, the longer the range.

Shifting: If you shift efficiently while you are cycling, i.e. in good time and regularly, this will have a positive impact on your range. Make sure you use a lower gear and always shift down to the lowest gear when standing still.

Battery: both the condition and the age of the battery will affect the range. An old(er) battery will have reduced capacity, thus providing a short(er)range.

Sensors: the type of sensor can have an impact on range. In general terms, a pedal force sensor is more energy-efficient than a rotation sensor.

How do you make the right choice?

There is a great deal of information available on (buying) e-bikes, and you may have a preference based on this information for a specific e-bike and/or (technical) components. There is also the possibility that members of your family or your friends can advise you based on their experience.

However, there is only one way of getting to know whether you are really making the right choice: have a test ride. On a test ride on the e-bike of your choice, you will find out whether the experience and use of the bike meet your expectations. Take advice from a specialist in the field of e-bikes and try out different types and configurations before making your final choice.

Find your shop

Visit a Gazelle bike shop to buy a new e-bike. There is always a Gazelle dealer ready to welcome you.